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Cleaning espresso machine

Jul 22, 2010
About Espresso Machines, Health and Safety

Source: http://cleaning.helium.com/how-to/10133-how-to-clean-an-espresso-machine

Like all the other appliances in your kitchen, your espresso machine needs a good cleaning once in a while. The number of times you clean it depends on how often you use it. If you use it regularly and make many cups of espresso, then you really should clean it at least once a week.

The oils from the coffee beans can accumulate in the machine and cause the espresso to have a unpleasant taste. They cause a film to build up on the filter basket and behind the water screen and over time this film will cause the holes in the filter to become clogged.

One of the main cleaning chores you should perform is to wipe the steam wand after every use and after each brewing session you should run a shot of hot water through the espresso machine.

Step 1
Read the cleaning instructions for your espresso machine. Each machine comes with cleaning instructions. You should read these carefully before you start and use the proper cleaning detergent.
Step 2
Backflush according to the directions of the detergent. Run the pump for 15 seconds and repeat this four more times. Lock the portafilter into position and start the pump so that it will build up pressure to open the vents and send the excess pressure back into the water reservoir. This action will force the detergent through the screen and will flush the oils out of the system.
Step 3
Wiggle the portafilter. Wiggle the portafilter back and forth to remove any residue that may be clogging the holes. Loosen the portafilter and hold it in place with your hand. With your other hand, start the pump on the espresso machine and as it fills with water, wiggle the portafilter. You do have to be prepared to get a bit wet as the water will splash all over the place.
Step 4
Clean the outside of the machine. Use a group brush to scrub away any deposits that still remain in the portafilter gasket and on the group heads. Wipe the shower screen with a wet cloth. Run clean water through the machine to rinse away any detergent residue. Use a damp cloth to wipe off the outside of the machine so that it stays looking shiny and new.
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1 Comment

  1. Lyndsay Routledge  •  Jul 23, 2010 @8:00 am

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